Kentucky Derby Contender Profile: Grande

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Kentucky Derby Contender Profile

Grande: Pletcher and Velazquez Team Up for Another Kentucky Derby Bid

Horse Racing Betting fans have a new name to consider as Grande officially joins the field for the 151st Kentucky Derby. After a strong performance in the prep season and some late defections from higher-ranked contenders, Grande steps onto the big stage. 

As his Kentucky Derby odds stabilize around +2000, bettors weighing their Kentucky Derby betting strategies should not overlook this late-developing colt.

Hall of Famer Todd Pletcher trains Grande and will be ridden by veteran John Velazquez, a team that previously found Derby success together. 

With a record of two wins and one runner-up finish from just three career starts, Grande arrives at Churchill Downs with momentum and a pedigree built for the 1 ¼-mile challenge.

Proven Bloodlines for the Derby Distance

Grande is a son of Curlin, the two-time Horse of the Year who has sired winners of the Preakness Stakes, Belmont Stakes, and Breeders’ Cup Classic. This year, Curlin will have two Derby starters in Grande and likely favorite Journalism. 

On the dam’s side, Grande is out of Journey Home, a daughter of War Front who excelled on turf and consistently hit the board in graded stakes company.

Grande’s connections add even more strength to his profile. John Velazquez is no stranger to the Churchill Downs winner’s circle, having won the Kentucky Derby three times aboard Animal Kingdom (2011), Always Dreaming (2017), and Authentic (2020). 

Trainer Todd Pletcher, while having saddled 62 Derby starters over his career, seeks just his third win following Super Saver (2010) and Always Dreaming (2017).

An Improving Colt on the Rise

Grande kicked off his racing career in January with a maiden win at Gulfstream Park, scoring by 2 ½ lengths over a mile. He quickly followed that victory with another at Gulfstream, stretching out successfully to 1 ⅛ miles in an allowance race. 

His most impressive performance came earlier this month when he finished second in the Grade 2 Wood Memorial at Aqueduct. Although Grande only ranked 22nd on the Kentucky Derby points leaderboard, he secured a spot in the starting gate thanks to defections by other contenders, including River Thames, who is targeting the Preakness instead.

Kentucky Derby Betting Outlook for Grande

Despite his steady rise and improving speed figures, Grande remains a mid-range option in Kentucky Derby lines at +2000. Some bettors view his limited experience as a concern, but his breeding, connections, and late-running style could set him up for a big performance if the early Derby pace is hot.

Grande will be Todd Pletcher’s lone shot to capture a third Kentucky Derby title in 2025. With Velazquez aboard and a proven ability to handle longer distances, Grande could offer excellent value for those willing to take a chance.

For live odds, expert picks, and full Derby coverage, make sure to visit our racebook today.